Sharjah International Book Fair 2025 Opens With Over 250 Authors From 66 Countries And Cultural Events

The 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025) commenced under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The event, held at Expo Centre Sharjah, features over 250 authors and intellectuals from 66 countries. They will lead more than 1,200 cultural and creative events during the fair, which runs until 16th November.

This year's fair honours Greece for its rich cultural legacy. The programme includes 58 Greek publishers showcasing 600 titles. Over 70 Greek participants, including authors and musicians, will engage in various activities. Greece's pavilion hosts an exhibition titled ‘Greek Literature: The Long Journey’, highlighting Greek writers' influence on global culture.

Egyptian writer Mohamed Salmawy is recognised as the Cultural Personality of the Year for his contributions to Arab theatre and literature over five decades. Salmawy is celebrated for his impactful plays and novels that have shaped cultural discourse in Egypt and beyond.

Star-Studded Sessions

International star Will Smith will discuss his career in writing, film, music, and entrepreneurship on November 14. Actors Khaled El Sawy and Dhafer L’Abidine will share their transition from acting to writing on November 8 at Expo Centre Sharjah.

Diverse Literary Voices

The fair hosts renowned thinkers like Professor Carlo Rovelli and novelist Paul Lynch. Authors such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Julie Smith are also participating. These figures have significantly influenced contemporary cultural discourse globally.

Thriller Festival Highlights

From November 8 to 11, SIBF will host the fourth Thriller Festival in collaboration with New York's Thriller Festival. Thirteen authors from various regions will explore crime and mystery genres. A theatrical performance titled ‘Murder at the Majlis’ invites audiences to solve a live crime.

Cultural Programme

Over 12 days, SIBF offers more than 1,200 events, including panel discussions with international speakers from diverse backgrounds. Workshops cover translation, creative writing, screenwriting, and publishing to foster creativity across disciplines.

Workshops and Poetry Cafe

The fair features workshops like ‘Creative Writing’ and ‘Food Allergies’. Children's activities include ‘Mini Library’ and ‘Build Your Own House’. The Poetry Cafe presents poetry evenings in multiple languages with poets from around the world participating.

New Additions: Pop-Up Academy

Debuting this year is the Pop-Up Academy featuring sessions by influencers in literature and technology. The UK’s Poetry Pharmacy offers bilingual poetry prescriptions. A Podcast Station showcases regional shows like ‘Asmar’ and ‘Arab Cast’.

Cookery Corner Delights

The Cookery Corner hosts live sessions by chefs such as Hisham Asaad and Fadi Kattan. These sessions offer culinary insights from around the globe, enhancing the fair's diverse offerings.

SIBF 2025 receives support from various partners including e&, Arada, Invest Bank, Bank of Sharjah, Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, Expo Centre Sharjah, Abu Dhabi Media, Trends Research and Advisory, Sharjah International Airport, and Central Finance Department.

With inputs from WAM